This creamy lemon butter salmon is a bright and tasty dish that’s sure to please. The buttery sauce with a hint of lemon makes the salmon so rich and flavorful.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or even chicken breast if you’re looking for an alternative. I love wild-caught salmon for its rich flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. I do enjoy the richness of heavy cream, though!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always better. The zing adds so much personality!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. Garlic powder can substitute if you’re in a hurry, but fresh is always superior for that punchy taste. I find the aroma of sautéed garlic simply irresistible.
How Do I Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but it’s important to get it just right. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and flaky:
- Start with a pre-heated skillet to get that nice sear.
- Cook skin-side down, which makes it crispier while the flesh steams. Don’t rush; let it develop flavor!
- Keep an eye on the color changes. Once it’s cooked about ¾ of the way through, it’s time to flip.
- For the best results, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). A little pink in the middle is totally okay!
Trust your instincts, and don’t forget to taste as you go – it’ll guide you to delicious results!
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for cooking salmon
For the Creamy Lemon Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh asparagus or preferred green vegetable
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and impressive meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. It’s a simple step but helps bring out the flavor.
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down if they have skin. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes. You want the skin to get nice and crisp! After that, flip the fillets and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until they are just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, let’s make that dreamy sauce! Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Wait until it melts, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that heavenly aroma!
4. Add Cream and Lemon:
Pour in the heavy cream, along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir the mixture constantly for about 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. You’ll see it transforming into a creamy sauce!
5. Flavor the Sauce:
Stir in the chopped dill and Dijon mustard, if you’re using it. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to make it just how you like it!
6. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning that luscious sauce over the top. Allow it to warm through for a minute or two. This way, every bite will be packed with flavor.
7. Serve:
Plate the salmon and drizzle generous amounts of the creamy lemon butter sauce on top. Garnish with extra fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Don’t forget that fresh asparagus or your favorite green vegetable to accompany this delightful dish!
There you have it! This creamy lemon butter salmon is rich, velvety, and bursting with fresh citrus flavors, making it a comforting yet elegant meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be slightly less rich but still delicious!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet while making the sauce. They’ll add great color and nutrition to your meal!